Simplifying analog CMOS design for undergraduates

Abstract

We have developed a method of simplifying physical design for undergraduates enrolled in analog VLSI design. The analog CMOS course is a VLSI design course with laboratory that includes design, fabrication and testing of analog CMOS circuits. A student's design begins with a simple current mirror and ends with different types of sampling circuits such as switched-capacitor and autozero circuits. The layout of thest parts is simplified by using cells similar to those used for analog stack generators. By introducing this course, more advanced digital VLSI courses can be taught at the undergraduate level, including those with larger projects.